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Rights group says UAE detains teen blogger

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A human rights group says authorities in the United Arab Emirates have detained an 18-year-old blogger as part of a widening crackdown on perceived dissent.

UAE authorities have taken dozens of people into custody in the past year over Internet postings or alleged links to an Islamist group that officials consider a threat to state security.

The London-based Emirates Center for Human Rights says Mohamed Salem al-Zumer was detained Wednesday at his home in Sharjah, the emirate north of Dubai. Al-Zumer had posted comments on the Internet supporting prominent jailed activists.

Officials gave no immediate statement in response to the Friday report.

Last month, the UAE imposed strict new laws that outlaw a range of activities on the Internet, including criticism of the ruling system or calling for street protests.